Do choose a safe location for your fire pit. Permanent pits cannot be moved, but you can still clear brush away and ensure your log pile is far from the ring. Portable pits should be set up on level ground that is far away from your house, shed and garage.

Do keep water close by for emergencies. Buckets of water or a garden hose that is turned on and ready to use are both reliable water sources that you can use in an instant if needed. If you are camping or in an area without easy access to water, ensure you have a shovel close by to extinguish the flames with dirt or sand.

Do pay attention to the weather and obey local burn bans. Windy days or lingering dry conditions can create dangerous fire situations quickly. Check with our local authorities before lighting your fire and choose another day for your plans if the conditions are less than ideal.